Biochemistry MSc

Biochemistry is the study of the chemical properties of biologically important molecules and processes in cells and tissues. It deals with the structure and function of cellular components, such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules. Biochemical understanding is fundamental to all biological disciplines. While much of modern biochemistry aims to provide an understanding of fundamental biological processes at a molecular level, it also contributes to the solving of medical problems and the discovery of safe and effective drugs. This programme aims to provide a thorough knowledge of contemporary Biochemistry at the cellular and molecular level. This programme allows students to gain research experience and professional skills, sometimes in a different area to their first degree, before deciding on a future career in industry or academic research.

This is a research focused Masters course. We do not teach Biochemistry using a traditional lecture-based format; instead we use an interactive approach where you learn through seminars, workshops, small group tutorials and during your research placements. For students who have had little hands on laboratory experience in their undergraduate degree we offer the Research Skills Summer School   which takes place for four weeks prior to the start of the main course and offers intensive research skills training.

The programme starts in September and runs for 12 months. You require 180 credits to complete the programme, of which:

• 120 credits are from research projects
• 15 credits are from units related to research skills
• 45 credits are from transferable skills units

Research Project s Most of your credits are achieved through the completion of two research placements and demonstration of the associated skills. Your projects each run for 18-weeks starting in October and April.

• Research Placement 1 (60 credits)
• Research Placement 2 (60 credits)
• Research Skills(15 credits)

Transferable Skills units The remainder of your credits are achieved through completion of activities that develop your transferable skills in essential areas such as experimental design, statistics, bioethics (included in the tutorial and workshop unit) and science communication. Experimental Design and Statistics runs at the start of the year to prepare you for your research projects. Elements of the other units run throughout the year alongside your research projects.

• Tutorial and Workshop (15 credits)
• Science Communication (15 credits)
• Experimental Design and Statistics (15 credits)